All Cities – North West

The North West of England is shaped by heritage, grit, and striking contrasts. It's a region where Roman-built Chester sits alongside the urban edge of Manchester, and sleepy Lakeland villages neighbour old mill towns. Across Cheshire, Lancashire, Merseyside, Cumbria, and Greater Manchester, every town and city contributes something unique to the wider picture.

This page contains a full list of cities, towns, and smaller places in the North West, organised into categories. Use it to understand the layout of the region, identify growing commuter belts, or simply to spot the names of places that matter most in everyday life.

Established Cities & Towns

General Towns

Smaller Towns & Villages

FAQs About North West Cities and Towns

Which are the most recognised cities in the North West?

Manchester and Liverpool are the largest and most well-known. Both are cultural powerhouses, deeply tied to music, sport, and their industrial pasts. Preston, Salford, and Carlisle also hold city status and regional influence.

Is Swindon in the North West?

No. Swindon is actually in Wiltshire, part of South West England. If it appears on this list, it's likely an error.

Are there any Lake District towns included?

Yes. Windermere, Ambleside, Keswick, Grasmere, and several others in Cumbria fall within the Lake District. These towns are surrounded by natural beauty and are key to tourism in the region.

Which towns are growing quickly?

Places like Warrington, Chorley, Altrincham, and Southport have seen steady development. Improved rail and motorway connections are pushing more demand into commuter-friendly areas across Greater Manchester and Cheshire.

Is the Wirral a city?

No. The Wirral is a peninsula and borough, not a city. It contains towns like Birkenhead, Wallasey, and Prenton, all falling under Merseyside.